China’s Trade Balance Surpasses Expectations

Investing.com — China’s trade balance grew more than anticipated in December, driven by stronger-than-expected exports as local companies prepared for U.S. trade tariffs under President-elect Donald Trump.

• Trade Balance: Increased to $104.84 billion in December, surpassing expectations of $100 billion, and rising from $92.44 billion in the previous month.
• Exports: Rose by 10.7% year-on-year, exceeding the forecast of 7.3% and up from 6.7% in November, as exporters ramped up shipments ahead of anticipated tariffs. Trump has pledged to impose tariffs from day one of his presidency.
• Trump’s Inauguration: Set for January 20.
• Imports: Grew by 1% in December, versus an expected decline of 1.5%, improving from a 3.9% drop the previous month.

Local demand in China is showing signs of recovery, supported by ongoing stimulus measures from Beijing. The government is expected to increase fiscal spending to mitigate the impact of Trump’s tariffs on the economy.